More than 160 works by Catholic school students were showcased at this year’s Angelico Exhibition, held from August 10 to 21 at Perth City’s Forrest Centre.
Now in its 22nd year, the exhibition has become a much anticipated event within the arts calendar, showcasing creative works by Catholic school students from across Western Australia.
It offers students the opportunity to share their creative works with a public audience and rewards outstanding artwork across the mediums of painting, ceramics, sculpture, furniture and textiles.
From as far north as Broome, to the southern shores of Albany, students in Years 7 to 12 from 31 schools participated in the event that was this year themed “Faith to Lead and Lead to Faith.”
Three new additions – a testament to the growing popularity of the event – included St Clare’s school, Lathlain; St Joseph’s, Albany and Bunbury Catholic College, Bunbury.
The prestigious Fra Angelico Award, named after the Early Italian Renaissance painter and Dominican Friar, was this year won by Year 11 student Elhanna Glock of St Clare’s school, Lathlain, whose painting titled “The Gift,” won the judges’ favour.
The Fra Angelico Award reflects artwork which embraces and upholds Catholic beliefs and values.
Archdiocese of Perth Auxiliary Bishop, Don Sproxton opened the exhibition on August 10 and assisted in the presentation of the Fra Angelico Award with judge Sr Elizabeth Sanders and Director of School Improvement at Catholic Education Western Australia, Dr Tony Curry.
Commenting on the impact of this year’s exhibition, Nikki Neville from Perth’s Catholic Arts Office stated that the exposure offered by the Perth CBD venue combined with the quality of the artwork made the event truly memorable.
“The exhibition was undoubtedly a huge success,” Ms Neville said.
“The students arrived to the exhibition not knowing whether they have won a prize or an award, which made the anticipation and element of surprise a highlight of the event,” she added.
A total of 23 Awards are presented acknowledging outstanding works.
These included the Caritas Award, won by Year 12 La Salle College student Jessica Saunders for her piece “Malala” ; the Phil Somers Sculpture Award, won by year 10 Newman College student Mary Johnston for her piece “Love of Work”; and the Parents’ and Friends’ Encouragement Award, won by Year 12 Servite student Meagan MacDonald for her piece “Holding On.”
This year’s judges included renowned artist Yvonne Zago – General Section, Janeen Murphy – Caritas Award, Trish Somers – Phil Somers Sculpture Award and Joe Monterosso – Parents’ and Friends’ Award.
The showcasing of the exceptional talents of the students will not end with this exhibition as some of this year’s Angelico Artwork will be used for display purposes at the National Catholic Education Commission national conference, held in Perth next year.